Mechanized cover crop farming: Modern methods, equipment and technologies
2023
Ovundah King Wofuru-Nyenke
Cover crops are important for covering the soil and fixing nutrients in order to manage soil erosion and improve soil quality. This paper discusses some of the modern methods, equipment and technologies used in carrying out cover crop farming. This is important because modern agricultural and farming operations work a lot differently from those of the past as a result of the improvements in technological advancements over the past decades. The paper explains the usefulness of the various classes of cover crops known as grasses, legumes, brassicas and non-legume broadleaves. It also explains the role of smart farming technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data, satellites, drones and robotic systems as well as Internet of Things (IoT). Some of the benefits of these advanced technologies are high crop productivity, efficient use of water, fertilizer and pesticides, and improvement in farmer safety and growing conditions, as well as reduced impact on the natural environment and ecosystem. Mechanized cover crop farming equipment are also discussed, and grouped into preparation, planting, termination and incorporation equipment, based on the stage they are used during the cover crop farming process. Clearly, these advanced equipment and technologies are aiding the cover crop farming process by making it safer and environmentally friendly while helping farmers to be more efficient.
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